Contact sports training device and methods

ABSTRACT

A contact sports training device is disclosed in which a single individual may realistically practice two-person contact sports, self-defense, or martial arts techniques that include grappling, blocking, and deflection, which may include a flexible back plate and one or more arms attached thereto to realistically resist and flex when a force is applied by a trainee, allowing for the practice of techniques that teach how to strike through, deflect, or penetrate defenses in a more lifelike training scenario. The contact sports training device may also include simulated weapons, be mounted to a heavy bag, Bob®, or other surface by straps or fasteners. Methods of training with a contact sports training device are also disclosed, including providing a responsive contact sports training device having simulated human arms extended forward in a defensive posture.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. Sec. 119 to U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 62/714,135 filed Aug. 3, 2018. The foregoing application is hereby incorporated by reference into the present application in its entirety.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

NAMES OF THE PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT

Not applicable.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for training and practice in combat, fighting, or contact sports, such as boxing, football, martial arts, mixed martial arts, or more generally, self-defense or other conditioning or training in which striking or engaging with a device is used to train and improve a practitioner's hand-to-eye coordination, reflexes, techniques, and ability to apply said techniques.

BACKGROUND ART

Achieving the desired level of proficiency in contact sports, martial arts, or self-defense requires repeated, realistic training employing strikes, feigns, blocks, and parries. Typically, such proficiency is difficult to achieve without real-life engagement with another person. Nevertheless, training alone is both beneficial and often more practical.

Devices used for individual training include punching bags, practice mannequins, and the like. Such devices are limited in that they are passive, rigid structures without the capability of mimicking an opponent's responses during engagement. They only allow a trainee to “hit” or “miss” their target, and cannot simulate live-action engagement, such as an opponent blocking or parrying the trainee's attack maneuvers. Contemporary training devices and methods fail to teach a trainee how to strike through or deflect defenses; consequently, these devices require the trainee to also train with a training partner to achieve real-world, live action skills.

While certain aspects of conventional technologies have been discussed to facilitate disclosure of the invention, Applicant in no way disclaims these technical aspects, and it is contemplated that the claimed invention may encompass one or more of the conventional technical aspects discussed herein.

In this specification where a document, act, or item of knowledge is referred to or discussed, that reference or discussion is not an admission that the document, act, or item of knowledge or any combination thereof was at the priority date, publicly available, known to the public, part of common general knowledge, or otherwise constitutes prior art under the applicable statutory provision; or is known to be relevant to an attempt to solve any problem with which this specification is concerned.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

The following presents a simplified summary of the disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosure. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure. It is intended neither to identify key or critical elements of the disclosure nor to delineate the scope of the disclosure. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of the disclosure, in accordance with the disclosure, in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description presented later.

In one embodiment, a contact sports training device is disclosed which includes a first plate with one or more first arm attachment points and at least two anchoring features. The anchoring features are configured to secure the contact sports training device to a support surface. The device also includes a second plate with one or more second arm attachment points, and the second plate is configured to matedly engage the first plate. The device further includes one or more arms. Each arm has an arm portion and a mating end, with the mating end extending outward from the arm portion and configured to be constrained between one of the arm attachment points of the first plate and second plate.

In another embodiment of the disclosure contact sports training device is provided which includes a flexible back plate sized to be approximately the width and height of an average human torso. The back plate includes a vertical midline that defines approximately two equal sides of the backplate, such that the left and right sides have an angle between them with the vertical midline at the intersection of the two sides. The angle between the sides is between about 170 and 174 degrees so that the flexible back plate may better conform to a mounting surface such as a fast bag, BOB®, or other non-flat surface. The flexible plate also includes two arm attachment points and at least two anchoring features configured to secure the device to a support surface. The device also includes one or more arms, with each arm having an arm portion and a mating end that is configured to connect the arm to one of the arm attachment points and positions the arm outward from the back plate approximately perpendicular to it.

In yet another embodiment of the disclosure, a method of training with a contact sports training device is disclosed, and includes providing a contact sports training device that has a flexible back plate dimensioned approximately the size of a human torso and having a vertical midline defining a left side and a right side. The left side and right side are angled relative to one another along the midline to create an angle between the left and right sides along the vertical midline such that the angle is between about 170 and 174 degrees. The training device provided also includes two arm attachment points and at least two anchoring features configured to secure the contact sports training device to a support surface, and one or more arms, where each arm has an arm portion and a mating end. The mating end of the arm on the provided training device is connectable to the arm attachment points so that each arm projects outward towards a trainee approximately perpendicular to the back plate. The method also includes positioning a trainee in a position suitable for the trainee to engage the training device, and subsequently the trainee engaging the training device.

Embodiments of the present disclosure may include components manufactured from various materials based upon the contemplated use. For embodiments that are contemplated for human use, materials that are durable, cleanable, and sanitary are contemplated to be within the scope of the present invention. By way of example and not limitation, materials contemplated for use on the backplate and skeletal components of the arms may be hard plastic, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or other similar material. Materials contemplated for use for padding may include poly-type foams, silicone, expanded rubber, and open- or closed-cell foam sleeves. Materials contemplated for use for covering arms and other padding may include vinyl, silicone, leather, cowhide and canvas cloth.

The contact sports training device disclosed herein has applicability to numerous contact sports, disciplines, and practices, including traditional martial arts, boxing, wrestling, mixed-martial arts, self-defense, and football. The device provides numerous options for anchoring it to existing training equipment, walls, or other suitable structures. In use, the training device provides realistic representation of a human sparring partner with respect to bio-mechanics, such as resistance and range of motion of human arms while also providing realistic anthropomorphic representation of arms extended forward in a defensive pose. The training device also allows the user to adjust the mounted height to simulate different height opponents.

The following description and the annexed drawings set forth certain illustrative aspects of the disclosure. These aspects are indicative of only some of the various ways in which the principles of the disclosure may be employed, and the present disclosure is intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features of the disclosure will become apparent from the following description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure can be readily understood by considering the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a partially exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a contact sports training device in accordance with the disclosure comprising a first backplate, a second backplate, anchoring points, anchor straps, and two arms; the device connected to a sparring mannequin support surface.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a contact sports training device in accordance with the disclosure comprising a first backplate, a second backplate, anchoring points, anchor straps, two arms, and fasteners fixing the arms to the plates with the device connected to a sparring mannequin support surface.

FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of a contact sports training device in accordance with the disclosure comprising single backplate and single mounting strap demonstrating connection of the backplate to a sparring mannequin support surface.

FIG. 4 illustrates a close-up view of one embodiment of an arm attachment point on the backplate, corresponding mating end of an arm, and fasteners.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a backplate showing arm attachment points, anchoring features, and shape of a backplate in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates a side perspective view of another embodiment of a contact sports training device with a two backplates, the device being attached to a sparring mannequin.

FIG. 7 illustrates a side perspective view of the embodiment of a contact sports training device of FIG. 6, the device being attached to a heavy bag.

FIG. 8 illustrates a front perspective view of yet another embodiment of a contact sports training device wherein the backplate is configured to represent the silhouette of a human for wall mounting.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description and the appended drawings describe and illustrate various embodiments of the disclosure solely for the purpose of enabling one of ordinary skill in the relevant art to make and use the disclosure. As such, the detailed description and illustration of these embodiments are purely exemplary in nature and are in no way intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, or its protection, in any manner. It should also be understood that the drawings are not to scale and in certain instances details have been omitted, which are not necessary for an understanding of the present disclosure, such as conventional details of fabrication and assembly.

In the Summary above, in the Description, and in the accompanying drawings, reference is made to particular features of the disclosure. It is to be understood that the disclosure in this specification includes all possible combinations of such particular features. For example, where a particular feature is disclosed in the context of a particular aspect or embodiment of the invention, or a particular claim, that feature can also be used, to the extent possible, in combination with and/or in the context of other particular aspects and embodiments of the disclosure, and in the disclosure generally.

The term “comprises” and grammatical equivalents thereof are used herein to mean that other components, structures, steps, etc. are optionally present. For example, an article “comprising” (or “which comprises”) components A, B, and C can consist of (i.e., contain only) components A, B, and C, or van contain not only components A, B, and C, but also one or more other components or structures.

Unless otherwise specified, the terms “approximately” and “about” when used in the context of a numeric figure are defined to mean±20% of the corresponding number(s). The term “at least” followed by a number is used herein to denote the start of a range beginning with that number (which may be a range having an upper limit or no upper limit, depending on the variable being defined). For example, “at least 1” means 1 or more than 1. When, in this specification, a range is given as “(a first number) to (a second number)” or “(a first number)-(a second number),” this means a range whose lower limit is the first number and whose upper limit is the second number. For example, 25 to 100 mm means a range whose lower limit is 25 mm, and whose upper limit is 100 mm. The terms “about” and “approximately” may further modify numbers defining a range.

The term “mechanical features” is used herein to mean features of a component—mechanical or geometric—which have a functional purpose of attaching or linking that component to one or more other components with compatible or corresponding mechanical features. An example of a mechanical feature is a slot in a component, where said slot is designed to accept strapping from another component and the union of the slot and strap from the two components effectively links, attaches, fixes, and/or locks the components together. The term “mechanical features” refers to, but is not limited to: hooks, hook and loop fasteners, slot and tabs, all male and female fasteners, screws, bolts, nuts, holes that have been tapped, latches, pins, etc.

While the specification will conclude with claims defining the features of embodiments of the disclosure that are regarded as novel, it is believed that the disclosure will be better understood from a consideration of the following description in conjunction with the figures, in which like reference numerals are carried forward.

In one embodiment, a contact sports training device is disclosed which includes a first plate with one or more first arm attachment points and at least two anchoring features. The anchoring features are configured to secure the contact sports training device to a support surface. The device also includes a second plate with one or more second arm attachment points, and the second plate is configured to matedly engage the first plate. The device further includes one or more arms. Each arm has an arm portion and a mating end, with the mating end extending outward from the arm portion and configured to be constrained between one of the arm attachment points of the first plate and second plate.

In some embodiments, the contact sports training device may comprise one or more holes as the anchoring features on the first plate or back plate. In other embodiments, the anchoring features may comprise one or more slots dimension to accept a strap. The training device may further include the straps themselves which may be permanently affixed to or reversibly engage the first plate or backplate.

With respect to the first plate of an embodiment of the contact sports training device, some embodiments could include a horizontal cross-section through the first plate approximating an arc, the arc having a radius of between about 103 inches and 191 inches and a central angle of between about 6 degrees and 10 degrees whereby the resulting arc is between approximately 18 and 20 inches in length.

Other embodiments of the contact sports training device, the arm portion and the mating and of the arm form an angle between them, whereby the angle is between about 50 and 110 degrees. In this way, when the arm unit is assembled to the backplate, it extends approximately perpendicular to the backplate.

In still other embodiments, the contact sports training device may include fasteners configured to mechanically couple the first plate, the second plate, and the mating and of an arm unit.

In yet another embodiment, the arm unit may further include an accessory end opposite that of the mating end, capable of reversibly accepting and accessory. In this embodiment, an arm comprises an accessory attachment end, an arm portion, and a mating end, and an accessory may be affixed to the accessory end with a force sufficient to simulate a human grasp and allow it to be removed from the contact sports training device through disarming techniques by a trainee.

In some embodiments, the first plate may have horizontal midline that defines a top side and a bottom side, such that the top and bottom define an angle between them. The angle between the top side and the bottom side may be between about 170 and 174 degrees. In this embodiment, the top and bottom of the contact sports training device may be more securely attached to a support structure.

Another embodiment of the disclosed contact sports training device is provided which includes a flexible back plate sized to be approximately the width and height of an average human torso. The back plate includes a vertical midline that defines approximately two equal sides of the backplate, such that the left and right sides have an angle between them with the vertical midline at the intersection of the two sides. The angle between the sides is between about 170 and 174 degrees so that the flexible back plate may better conform to a mounting surface such as a fast bag, BOB®, or other non-flat surface. The flexible plate also includes two arm attachment points and at least two anchoring features configured to secure the device to a support surface. The device also includes one or more arms, with each arm having an arm portion and a mating end that is configured to connect the arm to one of the arm attachment points and positions the arm outward from the back plate approximately perpendicular to it.

In some embodiments, the backplate of a contact sports training device may include a backside and a front side, with the backside having at least two surface stabilizing features and a highpoint. Each stabilizing feature has an upper surface for contacting a flat anchoring surface, such as a wall. In this embodiment, the at least two stabilizing features and a high point on the backplate define a plane such that the backplate can be stably mounted to a flat surface.

In yet another embodiment of the disclosure, a method of training with a contact sports training device is disclosed, and includes providing a contact sports training device that has a flexible back plate dimensioned approximately the size of a human torso and having a vertical midline defining a left side and a right side. The left side and right side are angled relative to one another along the midline to create an angle between the left and right sides along the vertical midline such that the angle is between about 170 and 174 degrees. The training device provided also includes two arm attachment points and at least two anchoring features configured to secure the contact sports training device to a support surface, and one or more arms, where each arm has an arm portion and a mating end. The mating end of the arm on the provided training device is connectable to the arm attachment points so that each arm projects outward towards a trainee approximately perpendicular to the back plate. The method also includes positioning a trainee in a position suitable for the trainee to engage the training device, and subsequently the trainee engaging the training device.

In still other embodiments, the method of training with a contact sports training device may include providing a simulated weapon on the contact sports training device and disarming the weapon from the device by a trainee.

With regard to the back plate, its function serves to provide a support system for the arms as well as a source of flexibility giving the desired range of motion for the arms during engagement with the device by a trainee. A contact sports training device may employ one or two plates to achieve the desired function of affixing the arms in an extended position.

For example, in one embodiment two plates are designed to constrain an end of an arm between them. Additional features of the mating surfaces on each of the two plates help prevent undesired rotation of the arms during engagement, as further explained below.

As another example, in one embodiment the backplate is a single component incorporating mechanical attachment features for coupling with the arms. Configurations may include snap-in sockets, slide-in sockets, ratcheting sockets, and the like which serve to secure the arms to the backplate in an engagement position.

The backplate is dimensioned to approximate an average human torso so as to be suitably sized to attach to a wide variety of existing contact sports equipment, such as a heavy bag or sparring mannequin. The backplate may be between approximately 18 to 20 inches wide, and between approximately 14 to 15 inches tall. The backplate is further constructed of materials and dimensioned to produce a certain degree of flexibility in the arms when attached, and which provides resistance in the arms which approximates human upper extremities strength during hand-to-hand engagement. For example, when constructed of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), the overall thickness of the backplate (whether 1-plate or 2-plate configuration) may range from about 0.25 to 1 inch. Further, the backplate need not be uniformly thick. Certain areas of the backplate may have greater or lesser thickness according to the strain delivered to the backplate when arms are engaged by a trainee. Similarly, the backplate may be constructed of more than one type of material to achieve the desired training responsiveness. Thus, the overall thickness of the backplate will depend in large part on the material(s) used, and the present disclosure contemplates a variety of materials and backplate thicknesses to produce approximately realistic hand-to-hand engagement training when the arms attached to the backplate. If the backplate material is too rigid, brittle, or thick, the backplate will not function as one source of flexion and range of motion in the arms. Similarly, if the backplate material is too soft or thin, the backplate will be too weak to effectively mimic human engagement. Consequently, the range of possible materials and thicknesses, and dimensions of the backplate may vary so as to produce approximately realistic hand-to-hand engagement training. Further, as a result of the flexibility or resiliency of the backplate, each arm returns to its original resting position once the applied force has been removed. However, the materials and dimensions of the training device minimize oscillation or “bouncing” of the arms after withdrawal of the applied force.

The backplate includes at least one attachment point for connecting an arm assembly. The attachment point may be configured to accept a splined mating end of an arm, or other geometries or configurations that prevent rotation of the arm at or within the attachment point. An attachment point may be entirely superficial as in the two-plate configuration, or may be configured to slottedly mate with an arm mating end as in the one-plate configuration. The attachment point may further include one or more apertures through which fasteners, buckle tabs, or other mechanical features engage to further restrain and connect the arm mating end to the backplate. Mechanical features of the attachment point restrict the arm's rotational movement once attached, and also restrict the arms from being withdrawn or removed from the backplate during use. Such features may include ratcheting steps similar to that employed in a cable tie. In this way, the mechanical features help ensure a mechanically cohesive contact sports training device providing flexibility and resiliency of the combined arm and backplate. An attachment point may be dimensioned up to approximately 4 inches long (two-plate configuration) or 4 inches deep (single-plate configuration).

The backplate may also be shaped in an angled or arced manner rather than a flat or planar surface so that the training device better couples with curved support surfaces such as a traditional heavy bag, sparring mannequin, or the like. Besides an improved overall backplate shape that better correlates and attaches to curved support surfaces, an angled or arced shape may provide spring-like tension when anchored to a support structure, further ensuring mechanical coupling between the training device and the support surface. The backplate may include two or more angled areas, or combination of angled and arced shapes to provide the overall approximately concave configuration. For example, a backplate may be shaped to provide a left side and right side with a midline between them, and where the two sides are angled relative to one another along the midline. The vertical midline may define approximately two equal sides of the backplate, such that the left and right sides have an angle between them, with the vertical midline at the intersection of the two sides. In such an embodiment, the angle between the sides may be between about 170 and 174 degrees. As a further example a backplate may be shaped to provide a left side, right side, a top side, and a bottom side, thus defining four quadrants (top left, top right, bottom left, bottom right), configured to provide an approximately concave shape for mating with a curved support surface. As yet a further example, a backplate may provide non-planar arc curvature along a horizontal line from left to right. As yet a further example, the backplate may include multiple vertical lines defining separate angled planes or arcs producing an overall concave shape. A horizontal cross-section through the backplate may approximate an arc, where the arc may have a radius of between about 103 inches and 191 inches and a central angle of between about 6 degrees and 10 degrees so that the resulting arc length is between approximately 18 and 20 inches.

Even while the backplate may have an overall slightly concave shape, it may also include two or more protrusions on the rearward facing (non-engagement, convex) side. Such protrusions may be placed in locations on the rear face of the backplate to optimize the training device's stability when mounted to a flat surface. For example, a protrusion may be placed at the far left side of the backplate, and another at the far right side of the backplate, each with sufficient height projecting out and rearward from the rear surface to ensure each protrusion and at least one other point on the backplate provide simultaneous contact at three points with a planar surface. However, the backplate need not be concave, and may optionally be substantially planar.

When back-mounted to a flat surface (i.e., not front-mounted attached to other training equipment), the contact sports training device may include padding on the frontward facing (engagement) side of the backplate. The padding may be reversibly attached to the backplate by various means, including, for example, hook-and-loop, snaps, straps, or magnets. The front-mounted padding may be shaped to correspond only to cover the backplate, or may be larger in size to approximate a human silhouette. In such an embodiment, a protective material (e.g., foam) with a suitable cover (e.g., polyvinyl fabric) would be placed over the front-facing part of the backplate to minimize the potential for injury.

The back plate may be mounted to a variety of curved and flat structures. By way of example, the assembled contact sports training device may be reversibly attached to a heavy bag, sparring mannequin or BOB® with flexible straps employing hook-and-loop, snap, or similar belt fastening devices. The straps may have a length sufficient to encircle a variety of support structures. As a further example, the assembled contact sports training device may be mounted to a wall via one or more openings through the backplate to accommodate bolts, screws, or other fasteners. The backplate may include multiple anchoring features to allow a user to utilize the device under different training scenarios, such as securing the device to a heavy bag utilizing one or more straps threaded through slots in the back plate, together with holes dimensioned to accept a fastener for wall-mounting. In this way, the training device may be mounted to multiple support structures.

Anchoring features on the backplate may be configured parallel to one another to allow a single strap to slip through two or more slots, or non-parallel whereby an end of a strap may be mechanically coupled to the backplate through a single slot. Alternatively, ends or portions of a strap may be permanently affixed to the backplate.

A further alternative of securing the backplate may include hook-and-loop connection, where a portion of the backplate includes either the hooks or loops while a strap includes corresponding loops or hooks for engaging with the hooks or loops on the backplate, whereby the backplate is anchored to the support surface by the compressive force applied when the strap is tightened or secured to the support surface.

The contact sports training device also includes one or more arms attached to the backplate. An arm consists of a resilient semi-stiff inner skeletal component and an outer padded component. Preferably, the skeletal portion of the arm is constructed of a rigid but resilient material, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) Schedule 40 or 80 piping of approximately 1.0 to 1.25-inch diameter, or other such comparable hard plastic material with similar measurements and/or structural properties.

The arm may be configured to simulate a human arm extended in a forward defensive posture. An arm is approximately 33 to 35 inches long, and also includes a mating end configured to angle at about 90 degrees so that the arm, when connected to the backplate, extends outward approximately perpendicular to the backplate. An arm may include a bend of approximately 20 to 30 degrees at a point along its length representing a human elbow. Preferably, the band occurs at approximately 17 to 19 inches from one end of the arm.

The padded portion of the arm may consist of an outer protective covering and an intermediate padding between the skeletal components and outer covering. Materials used to provide padding and protective covering add bulkiness and resiliency, and which are selected for suitable mass, resiliency, and durability, and which provide protection against injury of the trainee when the training device arms are engaged by a trainee with hits, blocks, parries and similar maneuvers. By way of example, padding materials may include poly-type protective foams (e.g, tubular high-density closed-cell foam sleeves), and outer layer made from any suitable material for use as an outer skin, such as vinyl. Other suitable materials other than vinyl include, but are not limited to, leather, cowhide and canvas. The skeletal component may also be “dip-coated” to apply the intermediate padding or outer protective covering in plastic or rubber material. As a further example, the outer arm covering may be molded in silicone or other soft or flexible material designed to more accurately resemble the color and shape of human arms and hands. The front-facing padding discussed above may be similarly constructed.

As a result of the combined resiliency and flexibility of the back plate and resiliency and flexibility of the arm skeletal components, padding, and outer covering, each arm returns to its original resting position once the applied force has been removed. Further, the assembled training device provides for a more natural and lifelike range of motion of the arms during use. The arms may provide three or more degrees of freedom (pitch, yaw, and roll at the shoulder attachment, and optionally, pitch at the elbow joint), much like a human arm.

The mating end of an arm may be coupled to the backplate by various means so that the union of the arm with the backplate creates a mechanically cohesive contact sports training device providing flexibility and resiliency of the combined arm and backplate. Additional features of the mating end and corresponding backplate attachment points may include configurations or geometries that prevent rotation of the arm within or on the attachment point. For example, the mating end may include splines, keyways, or other geometries that retard or restrict rotation. As another example, the mating end may consist of a curved portion and the attachment point consisting of a corresponding curved portion dimensioned to accept the mating end. Additional features on the mating end may include step-wise click or ratcheting features that prevent axial withdrawal of the mating end from the backplate attachment point after an arm is inserted into or constrained by the backplate. A further embodiment may include a single push release mechanism similar to a parachute style side release buckle. Pliable inserts may also be provided between the mating end and attachment point to further enhance mechanical coupling between the arm and backplate. In one embodiment, an arm may be mechanically fastened to the backplate through ordinary fasteners such as rivets, bolts, screws, and the like.

The end of an arm of the training device may include features for attaching training accessories, such as simulated weapons, so that a user may engage with the training device to practice disarming or avoidance penetrating techniques. The ends of the arms may also be configured to resemble a human hand and may further include flexible digits (fingers) under tension that allow the arm end to grip simulated weapons or other training accessories. The arm ends may be configured with hook-and-loop style fasteners, by having an opening into which an accessory is inserted and frictionally retained therein, or by other similar means that reversibly attach or couple the accessory at the end of the arm with the force approximating human hand grip.

The disclosure also contemplates methods of training with the various configurations of the contact sport training device. Methods may include engaging the training device with an initial attack, parry, deflection, or other maneuver, allowing the training device to return to its resting position, and a trainee subsequently engaging the training device with a second attack, parry, deflection, or other maneuver. A trainee may also employ different starting positions relative to the training device, such as to the left or right side, initial starting position from behind the training device, or directly in front of the training device. The trainee's initial body position, irrespective of his placement relative to the training device, may also be varied. For example, a trainee may be standing in front of the training device, but with the training device to his right side. The trainee may subsequently turn to engage the training device, or engage the training device while maintaining a side-facing position.

A further step in the method may include providing a simulated weapon on the extended arm of the contact sports training device capable of being removed to the application of a sufficient force by the trainee, and the trainee subsequently engaging the training device and removing or disarming the simulated weapon from the training device.

Now, with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, an embodiment of a contact sports training device is provided in accordance with the disclosure. A first plate 10 includes two top anchoring points, coupled to two top anchoring straps 16, two bottom anchoring slots mechanically engaged with a bottom strap 18, and having fastener holes 30 positioned to correspond concentrically with fastener holes 30 on a second plate 12 and fastener holes 30 on the mating end of arms 14. The mating end of arms 14 are configured to have a portion with a concave geometry, and the arm attachment points are configured to have a corresponding concave geometry to fixedly restrain the arm between the first plate 10 and second plate 12 when fasteners 20 are used to assemble the training device.

Turning to FIG. 3, another embodiment of a contact sports training device is provided in accordance with the disclosure. A backplate 13 includes two top anchoring points, two bottom anchoring slots, and an area 38 having hook and loop features for attaching to an area 40 on a bottom strap 36. The bottom strap includes a buckle 42 for securing the strap about a sparring mannequin. The backplate 13 also includes two recesses on the left and right sides for accepting a correspondingly dimensioned arm mating end. The backplate 13 also includes a left to right horizontally curvature adapted for securely anchoring the training device, once assembled with arms, to the curved sparring mannequin.

In FIG. 4, a closeup view of an embodiment of the features of the arm mating ends 15 and corresponding features on a first plate 10 and second plate 12 is illustrated. Arm mating end 15 includes an approximately 90-degree angle between the forward-facing portion of the arm and the backplate mating end, and a peaked portion 22. An insert 34 is also provided and configured to seat between the first plate 10 and arm mating portion 15. The first plate 10 has an indentation dimensioned to accept the insert 24 and mating end 15 such that the mating end is constrained between the first plate 10 and second plate 12 together with the insert 24. Washers 32 are provided to relieve strain between fasteners 20 and the combined first plate-insert-mating end.

FIG. 5 illustrates a backplate having an angle 70 between a left side and a right side, and an angle between a top portion and a bottom portion. Two attachment points on the backplate include holes 30 for accepting a fastener. The bottom portion of the backplate also includes two parallel slots 28 for accepting a bottom strop, while the top portion of the back plate includes two non-parallel slots 26 for accepting a top strap.

In FIG. 6, another embodiment of a contact sports training device is shown. First plate 17 mechanically couples with second plate 19 with fasteners 20. Arms 14 are constrained between the first plate 17 and second plate 19 by its geometric shape and with the further assistance of fasteners 20. Top strap 16 loops through a slot in first plate 17 and around the neck of a sparring mannequin support structure.

FIG. 7 illustrates the embodiment of a contact sports training device shown in FIG. 6, but attached to a heavy bag 90. The first plate mechanically couples with second plate, constraining arms 14 between them. Top strap 16 loops through two slots in first plate 17 and around an upper portion of heavy bag 90 while bottom strap 18 is mechanically coupled to the first plate and encircles heavy bag 90. Bottom strap 18 is tightened around the heavy bag via buckle 42.

Turning now to FIG. 8, another embodiment of contact sports training device is illustrated in its wall-mounted configuration and including human silhouette pad 80 facing a trainer with arms 14 extended outward from the backplate (not shown).

In light of the foregoing description, it should be recognized that embodiments in accordance with the present invention can be realized in numerous configurations contemplated to be within the scope and spirit of the claims. Additionally, the description above is intended by way of example only and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way, except as set forth in the claims.

In addition, though the disclosure has been described in reference to several examples optionally incorporating various features, the disclosure is not to be limited to that which is described or indicated as contemplated with respect to each variation of the disclosure. Various changes may be made to the disclosure described and equivalents (whether recited herein or not included for the sake of some brevity) may be substituted without departing from the true spirit and scope of the disclosure. In addition, where a range of values is provided, it is understood that every intervening value, between the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range, is encompassed within the disclosure.

Also, it is contemplated that any optional feature of the inventive variations described may be set forth and claimed independently, or in combination with any one or more of the features described herein. Reference to a singular item, includes the possibility that there are plural of the same items present. More specifically, as used herein and in claims associated hereto, the singular forms “a,” “an,” “said,” and “the” include plural referents unless the specifically stated otherwise. In other words, use of the articles allow for “at least one” of the subject item in the description above as well as claims associated with this disclosure. It is further noted that such claims may be drafted to exclude any optional element. As such, this statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for use of such exclusive terminology as “solely,” “only” and the like in connection with the recitation of claim elements, or use of a “negative” limitation.

Without the use of such exclusive terminology, the term “comprising” in claims associated with this disclosure shall allow for the inclusion of any additional element—irrespective of whether a given number of elements are enumerated in such claims, or the addition of a feature could be regarded as transforming the nature of an element set forth in such claims. Except as specifically defined herein, all technical and scientific terms used herein are to be given as broad a commonly understood meaning as possible while maintaining claim validity.

The breadth of the present disclosure is not to be limited to the examples provided and/or the subject specification, but rather only by the scope of claim language associated with this disclosure. 

What is claimed:
 1. A contact sports training device comprising: a first plate having one or more first arm attachment points and at least two anchoring features, the anchoring features configured to secure the contact sports training device to a support surface; a second plate having one or more second arm attachment points and configured to matedly engage the first plate; and one or more arms, each arm having an arm portion and a mating end, the mating end extending outward from the arm portion and configured to be constrained between the one or more first arm attachment points and the one or more second arm attachment points.
 2. The contact sports training device of claim 1 wherein the anchoring features are one or more holes dimensioned to accept a fastener.
 3. The contact sports training device of claim 1 wherein the anchoring features are one or more slots dimensioned to accept a strap.
 4. The contact sports training device of claim 1 wherein the first plate has a horizontal cross-section approximating an arc, the arc having a radius of between about 103 inches and 191 inches and a central angle of between about 6 degrees and 10 degrees whereby the arc is between approximately 18 and 20 inches.
 5. The contact sports training device of claim 1 wherein the arm portion and the mating end form an angle, the angle being between about 50 and 110 degrees.
 6. The contact sports training device of claim 1 further comprising one or more fasteners, and wherein the first plate, the second plate, and the mating end of the one or more arms are adapted to accept the fastener and thereby secure the mating end of the one or more arms between the first plate and the second plate.
 7. The contact sports training device of claim 1 wherein the arm portion of the one or more arms has an accessory end distal to the mating end, the accessory end reversibly couplable to an accessory, wherein the accessory is affixed to the accessory end with a force sufficient to simulate a human grasp and allow it to be removed from the contact sports training device through disarming techniques.
 8. The contact sports training device of claim 1 wherein the first plate has a horizontal midline defining a top side and a bottom side, the top side and bottom side defining a second angle therebetween, the second angle being between about 170 and 174 degrees.
 9. A contact sports training device comprising: a flexible back plate dimensioned approximately the size of a human torso and comprising a vertical midline defining a left side and a right side, wherein the left side and right side further define an angle therebetween along the vertical midline, the angle being between about 170 and 174 degrees; two arm attachment points; and at least two anchoring features configured to secure the contact sports training device to a support surface; one or more arms, each arm having an arm portion and a mating end, the mating end connectable to the arm attachment points wherein the one or more arms project approximately perpendicular to the back plate.
 10. The contact sports training device of claim 9 wherein the back plate further comprises a back side and a front side, the back side having at least two surface stabilizing features, each stabilizing feature having an upper surface, the upper surfaces of the at least two stabilizing features being approximately co-planar with a back plate highpoint such that the back plate can be stably mounted to a flat surface.
 11. The contact sports training device of claim 9 wherein the at least two anchoring features comprise holes dimensioned to insertedly accept a fastener.
 12. The contact sports training device of claim 9 wherein each of the at least two anchoring features comprise two slots dimensioned to slidably accept a strap.
 13. The contact sports training device of claim 12 further comprising at least two straps, each strap dimensioned to insertedly engage one of the at least two anchoring feature slots and encircle a support surface.
 14. A method of training with a contact sports training device comprising the steps of: providing a contact sports training device having a flexible back plate dimensioned approximately the size of a human torso and having a vertical midline defining a left side and a right side, wherein the left side and right side further define an angle therebetween along the vertical midline, the angle being between about 170 and 174 degrees; two arm attachment points; and at least two anchoring features configured to secure the contact sports training device to a support surface; one or more arms, each arm having an arm portion and a mating end, the mating end connectable to the arm attachment points wherein the one or more arms project approximately perpendicular to the back plate; positioning a trainee in a position suitable for the trainee to engage said device; and engaging the contact sports training device by said trainee.
 15. The method of training with a contact sports training device of claim 14 further comprising the steps of providing a simulated weapon on the contact sports training device, and disarming the contact sports training device by said trainee. 